When Cynthia Cox’s physician found abnormalities in her ovaries in October 2014, he referred the then-39-year-old to Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children.
The following month, Gynecologic Surgeon Dr. Michael Carney rendered a full diagnosis of stage 3C metastatic ovarian cancer.
“At first I was very scared of the unknown. Once I received my diagnoses, I was completely distraught and extremely scared,” Cynthia remembers. “I was close to feeling hopeless once I learned that my cancer had spread to several organs and moreover, when I learned my survival rate was very low.”
I understand that my will to fight was the most imperative part of my survival; however, having the Kapiolani team on my side was profound."
Because of the advanced degree of Cynthia’s cancer, she would require two surgeries, including a full hysterectomy, as well as chemotherapy treatment that lasted six months.
Needless to say, the road to recovery was painful.
“I understand that my will to fight was the most imperative part of my survival; however, having the Kapiolani team on my side was profound,” Cynthia says.
“Dr. Carney was a very, very special part of my cancer journey. His primary specialization in gynecological cancers is why I am here today, and able to share my remarkable story of survival and beating some tough odds. He will forever be someone I will hold dear in my heart.
“Dr. Bart Pillen was an essential part of my treatment as he guided me and helped me to confront all the challenges an individual can encounter with a terminal diagnosis of cancer. More importantly, he played an important part of my healing journey.
“Brenda was the nurse who did my infusions without pain. Her role in my journey was also beneficial and positive.
“The care and support I received transformed from professional to family,” Cynthia concludes. “The best way to describe my relationship with my team is they were the reinforcement of my cancer journey.”
Today Cynthia is “doing fabulous!”
I am a cancer survivor. I always knew in the deepest part of my soul that I had more to do here in this world."
She was able to return to school and graduated with honors. Now, she works in a field where she can empower others and give back.
Most importantly, she is cancer-free.
“I am a walking miracle, as the great Dr. Carney says,” Cynthia laughs. “I am a cancer survivor. I always knew in the deepest part of my soul that I had more to do here in this world. Part of that today entails being able to bring awareness regarding preventive measures and vulnerably sharing both my cancer journey and life after cancer – to pass hope to individuals who are currently in their fight.
“No matter how difficult or advanced the diagnosis, you can still do things on your own terms. You can run, leap and tower over the despair and choose to fight. In simple terms, ‘Do cancer on your terms, not on the terms of the disease.’”
Published on: October 21, 2019